Reflection 02: Political Stars—Celebrities and Politics

As last week's inauguration for President Obama illustrated, politics can be a star-studded affair. In fact, celebrities, both liberal and conservative, came out in full force for the 2012 presidential election. Throughout the campaign, President Obama and Governor Romney could count on a stable of celebrity backers to stump on their behalves—though it was decidedly slanted in favor of the President. Presidential politics aside, celebrities have also sought to inform the public on any number of issues, ranging from the humanitarian crisis in Darfur to marriage equality to the environment. But do all these stars' efforts really make a difference? Can people really be persuaded to vote for a candidate or give to a cause because of a celebrity's endorsement? Likewise, can a celebrity's stamp of approval turn people off? Is it fair to question if celebrities are even qualified to speak to some of these issues? Finally, have you ever been swayed toward a politician or cause because of a celebrity? Why or why not?

Include at least three of the following in your discussion:

• "Celebs Get Political in 2012" (Politico)
• "How Celebrity Endorsements Affect Voters" (E!)
• "Convention Star Power: Blurring the Line Between Celebrity and Politics" (CBS News)
• "When Celebrities Get Involved in Politics" (Washington Post)
• "Do the Political Opinions of Celebrities Matter?" (Investopedia) 
• "Are Celebrities Qualified to Have Political Opinions?" (Slate) 

Requirements:

• MLA Style
• Two full pages in length
• Works cited page

Find a sample reflection HERE.

Due: We 01.30—Along with Reflection 01